This book is written with both degree and diploma student midwives in mind. It is split into two sections, each alphabetical.  The first section contains some of the language of midwifery: terms, abbreviations and definitions. The second section contains common conditions, procedures, emergency situations, and supporting information. Each topic includes further factors that involve recognition, prevention, and actions to take in an emergency situation that may be in the form of flow/action charts. The procedures that are included have an overview of the 'how to', (frequently including the preparation needed); and the 'why', supported by research or evidence, and Midwives’ rules and standards (NMC 2004b) and The NMC code of professional conduct: standards for conduct, performance and ethics (NMC 2004a). The references used provide useful evidence to support practice. Finally, the supporting information is varied and ranges from details about Government and international initiatives to available support groups and useful websites.